Description
A hearty and wholesome Minestrone Casserole that combines classic Italian vegetables, beans, and pasta in a flavorful vegetable broth, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a comforting baked dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup baby spinach
Canned and Dry Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (like elbow or ditalini)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the aroma is fragrant.
- Add remaining vegetables and liquids: Stir in the diced zucchini, baby spinach, diced tomatoes, drained white beans, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors together.
- Cook pasta in skillet: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the broth.
- Add cheese topping: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the skillet mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and serve warm as a comforting complete meal.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet or transfer to a baking dish before baking to avoid breaking cookware.
- You can substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth if not vegetarian.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy version.
